Indian Kushti Wrestlinghttp://www.photoshelter.com/va-gallery/V0000boq12VLcPH4/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc?_bqO=0&_bqH=eJxLNCiMN4hI9rMMidd1jcyMKokIKswz8vdyCoq0MjKyMjK1snKP93SxdTcAAsdkc7980.wKi9BktTCQaBhINCm_0NAozCc5wMNEzd0z3t3Rx8c1KBKbJgDiLR.6
The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Mon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500http://www.photoshelter.com/img/ps-logo.gifIndian Kushti Wrestlinghttp://www.photoshelter.com/va-gallery/V0000boq12VLcPH4/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc?_bqO=0&_bqH=eJxLNCiMN4hI9rMMidd1jcyMKokIKswz8vdyCoq0MjKyMjK1snKP93SxdTcAAsdkc7980.wKi9BktTCQaBhINCm_0NAozCc5wMNEzd0z3t3Rx8c1KBKbJgDiLR.6
-en-ushttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000HKo5s9JZSqg/0?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-01.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000HKo5s9JZSqg/0Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000HKo5s9JZSqg/0"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000HKo5s9JZSqg/s/500/I0000HKo5s9JZSqg.jpg" alt="The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaThe ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000_2gWEoY1Xsw/1?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-02.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000_2gWEoY1Xsw/1Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000_2gWEoY1Xsw/1"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000_2gWEoY1Xsw/s/500/I0000_2gWEoY1Xsw.jpg" alt="Wrestlers at an akhara near the Ganges river in Varanasi prepare the soil for a morning practice. The process itself is rigorous, where men take turn hauling each other on a plow. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />Wrestlers at an akhara near the Ganges river in Varanasi prepare the soil for a morning practice. The process itself is rigorous, where men take turn hauling each other on a plow. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaWrestlers at an akhara near the Ganges river in Varanasi prepare the soil for a morning practice. The process itself is rigorous, where men take turn hauling each other on a plow. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000_o67s0I.Ptg/2?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
137082473kushti-indian-wrestling-03.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000_o67s0I.Ptg/2Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000_o67s0I.Ptg/2"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000_o67s0I.Ptg/s/500/I0000_o67s0I.Ptg.jpg" alt="Using the soil to reduce impact and improve movement, wrestlers intertwine their bodies in complex techniques. Behind them, a shrine for the Hindu warrior god Hanuman, which they pray to before stepping onto the sacred arena. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />Using the soil to reduce impact and improve movement, wrestlers intertwine their bodies in complex techniques. Behind them, a shrine for the Hindu warrior god Hanuman, which they pray to before stepping onto the sacred arena. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaUsing the soil to reduce impact and improve movement, wrestlers intertwine their bodies in complex techniques. Behind them, a shrine for the Hindu warrior god Hanuman, which they pray to before stepping onto the sacred arena. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000UWhXuKtg.og/3?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-04.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000UWhXuKtg.og/3Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000UWhXuKtg.og/3"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000UWhXuKtg.og/s/500/I0000UWhXuKtg.og.jpg" alt="The small arena brings young men from different castes together whereas they might never interact in the real world. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The small arena brings young men from different castes together whereas they might never interact in the real world. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaThe small arena brings young men from different castes together whereas they might never interact in the real world. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000VaNntjSQte4/4?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-05.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000VaNntjSQte4/4Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000VaNntjSQte4/4"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000VaNntjSQte4/s/500/I0000VaNntjSQte4.jpg" alt="The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a>kushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaThe ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benareshttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I000069VJdhJLc4Y/5?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-06.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I000069VJdhJLc4Y/5Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I000069VJdhJLc4Y/5"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I000069VJdhJLc4Y/s/500/I000069VJdhJLc4Y.jpg" alt="A professional wrestling coach from the city's Olympic-style gym visits to help train for an upcoming tournament. He is revered as a wise man and the men touch his feet when he enters as a sign of respect. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />A professional wrestling coach from the city's Olympic-style gym visits to help train for an upcoming tournament. He is revered as a wise man and the men touch his feet when he enters as a sign of respect. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaA professional wrestling coach from the city's Olympic-style gym visits to help train for an upcoming tournament. He is revered as a wise man and the men touch his feet when he enters as a sign of respect. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000_xCzbBrTNk8/6?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
131682112kushti-indian-wrestling-07.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000_xCzbBrTNk8/6Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000_xCzbBrTNk8/6"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000_xCzbBrTNk8/s/500/I0000_xCzbBrTNk8.jpg" alt="The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a>kushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaThe ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benareshttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000nkf_4iWSnfs/7?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-08.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000nkf_4iWSnfs/7Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000nkf_4iWSnfs/7"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000nkf_4iWSnfs/s/500/I0000nkf_4iWSnfs.jpg" alt="Hundreds of men crowd together in a village field outside Varanasi for a local tournament. A commentator announces the contestants as well as honored guests - former champion wrestlers. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />Hundreds of men crowd together in a village field outside Varanasi for a local tournament. A commentator announces the contestants as well as honored guests - former champion wrestlers. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaHundreds of men crowd together in a village field outside Varanasi for a local tournament. A commentator announces the contestants as well as honored guests - former champion wrestlers. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000S0Nwa2gBRSI/8?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-09.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000S0Nwa2gBRSI/8Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000S0Nwa2gBRSI/8"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000S0Nwa2gBRSI/s/500/I0000S0Nwa2gBRSI.jpg" alt="The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a>kushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaThe ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benareshttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000iTV31wERb.E/9?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-10.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000iTV31wERb.E/9Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000iTV31wERb.E/9"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000iTV31wERb.E/s/500/I0000iTV31wERb.E.jpg" alt="A constant flow of matches overlap, keeping the audience engaged. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />A constant flow of matches overlap, keeping the audience engaged. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaA constant flow of matches overlap, keeping the audience engaged. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I00007I84aUUhBN4/10?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
131682112kushti-indian-wrestling-11.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I00007I84aUUhBN4/10Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I00007I84aUUhBN4/10"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I00007I84aUUhBN4/s/500/I00007I84aUUhBN4.jpg" alt="The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a>kushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaThe ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benareshttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000snfjDRbbPwQ/11?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
131682112kushti-indian-wrestling-12.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000snfjDRbbPwQ/11Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000snfjDRbbPwQ/11"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000snfjDRbbPwQ/s/500/I0000snfjDRbbPwQ.jpg" alt="The fighters give in after an exhausting few minutes of grappling. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The fighters give in after an exhausting few minutes of grappling. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaThe fighters give in after an exhausting few minutes of grappling. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I00002kq.whHsaFY/12?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
131682112kushti-indian-wrestling-13.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I00002kq.whHsaFY/12Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I00002kq.whHsaFY/12"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I00002kq.whHsaFY/s/500/I00002kq.whHsaFY.jpg" alt="Some men and boys climb nearby trees for a better view of the fights. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />Some men and boys climb nearby trees for a better view of the fights. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaSome men and boys climb nearby trees for a better view of the fights. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000mq2Xg3fqZvs/13?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-14.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000mq2Xg3fqZvs/13Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000mq2Xg3fqZvs/13"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000mq2Xg3fqZvs/s/500/I0000mq2Xg3fqZvs.jpg" alt="The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a>kushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaThe ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benareshttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000OuQW844ZIRc/14?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-15.jpgDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000OuQW844ZIRc/14Kushti Wrestling in Varanasi, India by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000OuQW844ZIRc/14"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000OuQW844ZIRc/s/500/I0000OuQW844ZIRc.jpg" alt="After a training session, the wrestlers take a dip in the holy Ganges river to wash off the dirt and pay tribute to the gods. The sport and its religious observance are deeply woven. Each akhara has its own shrine for the warrior god Hanuman. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />After a training session, the wrestlers take a dip in the holy Ganges river to wash off the dirt and pay tribute to the gods. The sport and its religious observance are deeply woven. Each akhara has its own shrine for the warrior god Hanuman. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisKushti Wrestling in Varanasi, IndiaAfter a training session, the wrestlers take a dip in the holy Ganges river to wash off the dirt and pay tribute to the gods. The sport and its religious observance are deeply woven. Each akhara has its own shrine for the warrior god Hanuman. The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000RqlmUexxLdM/15?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-16.JPGDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000RqlmUexxLdM/15kushti-indian-wrestling-16.JPG by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000RqlmUexxLdM/15"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000RqlmUexxLdM/s/500/I0000RqlmUexxLdM.jpg" alt="The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisThe ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000MwHBXf21.T4/16?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-17.JPGDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000MwHBXf21.T4/16kushti-indian-wrestling-17.JPG by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000MwHBXf21.T4/16"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000MwHBXf21.T4/s/500/I0000MwHBXf21.T4.jpg" alt="The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisThe ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000sQ.gb50_bDo/17?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-18.JPGDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000sQ.gb50_bDo/17kushti-indian-wrestling-18.JPG by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000sQ.gb50_bDo/17"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000sQ.gb50_bDo/s/500/I0000sQ.gb50_bDo.jpg" alt="The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisThe ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I000065RIARPYKn0/18?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-19.JPGDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I000065RIARPYKn0/18kushti-indian-wrestling-19.JPG by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I000065RIARPYKn0/18"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I000065RIARPYKn0/s/500/I000065RIARPYKn0.jpg" alt="The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisThe ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000kuk0_WDvRXU/19?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
126674001kushti-indian-wrestling-20.JPGDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000kuk0_WDvRXU/19kushti-indian-wrestling-20.JPG by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000kuk0_WDvRXU/19"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000kuk0_WDvRXU/s/500/I0000kuk0_WDvRXU.jpg" alt="The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisThe ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000eVRZUt0TPZg/20?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-21.JPGDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000eVRZUt0TPZg/20kushti-indian-wrestling-21.JPG by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000eVRZUt0TPZg/20"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000eVRZUt0TPZg/s/500/I0000eVRZUt0TPZg.jpg" alt="The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisThe ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000NuYMkFVLox0/21?V_ID=V0000boq12VLcPH4
143682912kushti-indian-wrestling-22.JPGDanny Ghitishttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.comhttps://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000NuYMkFVLox0/21kushti-indian-wrestling-22.JPG by Danny GhitisMon, 14 Nov 2011 15:04:02 -0500<a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/G0000Ac7No5kx8Uc/I0000NuYMkFVLox0/21"><img src="https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get/I0000NuYMkFVLox0/s/500/I0000NuYMkFVLox0.jpg" alt="The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. (Danny Ghitis)" /></a>
<br />The ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways. <a href="https://dannyghitis.photoshelter.com">(Danny Ghitis)</a><br />Copyright: Danny GhitiskushtiwrestlingsportIndiaIndianmuddirtritualVaranasihindumenweightsliftingtrainingruraltempleGangesbenaresDanny GhitisThe ancient tradition of Indian wrestling, known as kushti, thrives in Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities. Wrestling gyms, or akhara, scattered around the city are of the few places where Hindu men from different casts are considered equals. Aside from bodybuilding, practiioners emphasize a life of discipline and celibacy. But as modernity sweeps India and Western sports like cricket become more popular, some akhara are being abandoned. While some prominent, government-run gyms switched to mats for Olympic-style wrestling, akhara in villages and towns maintain the old ways.Danny Ghitiskushti, wrestling, sport, India, Indian, mud, dirt, ritual, Varanasi, hindu, men, weights, lifting, training, rural, temple, Ganges, benaresDanny Ghitis